Accidental Information Discovery: Cultivating Serendipity in the Digital Age

Accidental Information Discovery: Cultivating Serendipity in the Digital Age provides readers with an interesting discussion on the ways serendipity—defined as the accidental discovery of valued information—plays an important role in creative problem-solving.

This insightful resource brings together discussions on serendipity and information discovery, research in computer and information science, and interesting thoughts on the creative process. Five thorough chapters explore the significance of serendipity in creativity and innovation, the characteristics of serendipity-friendly tools and minds, and how future discovery environments may encourage serendipity.

• Examines serendipity in a multidisciplinary context
• Bridges theory and practice
• Explores digital information landscapes of the future with essays from current researchers
• Brings the concept of accidental discovery and its value front and center

• Language: English
• Publisher: Elsevier Science
• Release date: Jun 13, 2016
• ISBN: 9781780634319

Book preview

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Chapter 1

Introducing Serendipity

T.M. Race¹ and S. Makri²,    ¹New College of Florida, Sarasota, FL, United States,    ²City University London, London, United Kingdom

Abstract

Serendipity, the happy accident of discovery, not only manifests itself in scientific discoveries and modern innovations, but also our work and everyday activities. It has the potential to act as a catalyst for the acquisition of new knowledge, a jumpstart to creativity, and an energizer when we experience a slump in problem-solving. While often referred to as a happy accident, serendipity is not entirely due to chance; we can prepare our minds for serendipitous opportunities and need to seize them when they present themselves. Although serendipity involves an element of luck, it is more than blind luck. It cannot be controlled, but it can be influenced. It cannot be created on demand, but it can be cultivated. This book examines how we can cultivate serendipity in the context of accidental information discovery—by making room for serendipity in our lives (see chapter: Making Room for Serendipity) and by designing academic learning environments (see chapter: Teaching Serendipity) and digital information environments (see chapters: Serendipity in Current Digital Information Environments and Serendipity in Future Digital Information Environments) that create opportunities for it.

Keywords

Serendipity; accidental discovery; information discovery; information seeking; innovation; creativity; scientific